State Election 2017: Liza Harvey hits back at criticism of policing strategy from Labor candidate

“We use an evidence-based policing model where resources are allocated according to an analysis of what’s happened overnight and the crime rates in the area,” Mrs Harvey said.

Mr Price has said the government in WA needed to return to a more traditional policing model, where police stations were open for longer.

“I don’t know what he means by a ‘traditional policing model’, as we respond to what’s happened from the statistics of where crime has been committed and how many police officers are needed at the time in any one location,” Mrs Harvey said.

“Midland has some anti-social behavioural problems but it is in no way the worst area we are dealing with.”

Cr Daniel Parasiliti, who is the Liberal candidate for Midland, said he was concerned that the behaviour was affecting local businesses.

“I have worked with the City of Swan to make sure local businesses and police are working together to help tackle problems on the street and also provide a multi-pronged approach to issues here in Midland,” he said.

One of the initiatives to help local businesses, especially on Helena Street, was the removal of the park bench in the City of Swan square near the library, Cr Parasiliti said.